The de-commitment of Trammell Jones, the lone quarterback in Florida State’s 2025 class, marks a significant shift in the Seminoles’ recruiting strategy and adds another challenge to an already unpredictable cycle. Jones had been a long-time commit to FSU, but recent rumors of his flirtation with the Florida Gators had raised questions about his future with the program. His decision to officially de-commit Thursday morning further fuels concerns that FSU’s quarterback recruiting is in flux.
Jones’ de-commitment could be a response to several factors, both on and off the field. For one, Florida State has reportedly increased its interest in Carter Smith, a four-star quarterback who de-committed from Michigan in late October. Smith is a different style of quarterback than Jones—more of a dual-threat with slightly better size and mobility, which may fit more into the evolving offensive scheme under head coach Mike Norvell. Smith’s recruitment likely became a contingency plan for FSU in the event Jones decided to move on, and now that Jones is out, Smith could become a top priority.
Additionally, there’s speculation that Jones may have been informed about uncertainty surrounding FSU’s quarterback coach, Tony Tokarz. If Tokarz’s future with the program is in question, that could have played a role in Jones’ decision. The Seminoles also have other factors at play in their 2025 class, such as their lack of high school wide receiver commits, and the presence of a higher-rated 2026 quarterback in Brady Smigel, who could further complicate Jones’ path to the field.
From a strategic standpoint, while Jones wasn’t expected to come in and start as a freshman, his loss still hurts FSU’s depth at quarterback. The team may look to add a transfer QB for 2025 to provide immediate competition and stability. Additionally, FSU is still working to retain commitments from quarterbacks Luke Kromenhoek and Brock Glenn, both of whom are highly rated prospects. While Kromenhoek is seen as more likely to stay, Glenn’s situation is more uncertain.
If Jones flips to Florida, it could impact FSU’s perception in recruiting, particularly in-state. However, Jones would likely sit behind top Gators quarterback DJ Lagway for at least two years, limiting any immediate impact on the Seminoles. Ultimately, the real focus for FSU will be securing a quarterback class that can lead the program into a critical 2025 season, where development, competition, and depth will be key.
